PROS
SP D HROARSPEDEC-WTIVEIEGHT
THE SECOND ROD IN THE BOAT
on’t let the nay-sayers discourage you.
When it comes to shared-weight pro-
ams, you’re not a lesser tournament
fisherman for playing; you’re a better resource manager.
I admit, the (shared weight) practice is not universal in the ranks of professional fishing. In fact, in many places, catching all the fish you weigh in is somehow deemed a sign of increased virility and skill, rather than a badge of superior time and tactical management.
are they today to believe that individual “co- anglering” is some kind of validation for a second- level competition while a pro tournament is being conducted. That system is a remnant of the old, self- policing security system, with a marketing twist to bring in a few more players at a lower price point.
Sure, it was ultimately the pros who were the first ones to ask to get rid of the other guy in the boat because it crimped the former’s style and versatility—and potentially split the available fish to catch. Yet, that’s the way it was for decades.
Funny how those who chirp and rail on the
Back then, the rules stated that “half the day” of
national websites forget how the game was
spot choices and trolling motor operation would be
originally played: two pros vying head-
available to each partner. But most
to-head on foredecks barely the
agree that’s not what generally
size of a wheel barrow.
occurred. After the boat operator
How naïve
got his half of the day,
BY GEORGE KRAMER
open letter to
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